Snooker: Walker seeks ‘Rocket’ scalp

Sheffield potter Joel Walker is confident he can cause an upset when he faces reigning world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan in next week’s International Championship qualifiers.

The talented 19-year-old takes on O’Sullivan, nicknamed the ‘Rocket’ on Tuesday, October 1, at 2.30pm at the Barnsley Metrodome. It will be the first time the duo have collided in a competitive match.

Walker, ranked 89 in the world, said: “I’m really looking forward to playing Ronnie; I can’t wait. I spent a lot of time practising with him in 2010. I have improved a lot since then and if I play well on Tuesday I’ve got every chance of winning.”